Play is fun-damental to learning and development

“Play is how children learn and develop, especially in their younger years. All children need, and have a right, to play. This course explores the importance of play for children, and the many benefits that it provides. There is a focus on play and physical development, Personal, Social and Emotional Development (PSED), sensory play, playing in nature, and the play cycle.

Learning outcomes

• You will understand that the impulse to play is innate, and stays with us throughout our lives
• You will understand the play cycle, and be able to relate it to your own observations and experiences of play
• You will appreciate the role of play in supporting learning and development, with a focus on physical development and PSED

Advantages

• The benefits of outdoor play, free play, and sensory play are considered in this course. Along with some excellent resources on how play is beneficial to children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
• A theory of play is a set of ideas surrounding how play relates to, and affects, cognitive development through childhood and beyond. There is an excellent resource on theories of play included in this course.
• Video resources show early years practitioners promoting sensory and cognitive development through play, encouraging children to play, and the role of play in early childhood
• There is also suggested extended reading that gives both practical information and links to websites to expand knowledge”